Schizandra berries are a very powerful addition to any diet. As a prominent herb in chinese medicine and taoist tonic herbalism, they offer a wide range of benefits suitable for many people. Rather than being specific for one or two health issues, they work to bring you to a higher level of overall health and vitality. They also are incredible for the liver and skin, according to research and traditional uses.

In the system of Taoist Tonic Herbalism, there are three prominent treasures or energies that are considered to be the foundation of health and wellness. These include Jing, Chi, and Shen. Jing is our core vitality or essence, which is connected to our adrenals/kidneys and reproductive health. Chi is our day to day energy. Shen is our sense of spiritual connection. Interestingly, Schizandra berries contain all three treasures in high amounts.

Shizandra berries are also subtley stimulating, giving an increase of focus when you need it. They, however, do not negatively effect the nervous system or adrenals like excessive use of coffee can do. They are considered to be an adaptogen, which means that they do not over-stimulate or induce relaxation unless you are naturally moving in that direction and can benefit from it. This quality makes Schizandra berries an incredible herb for stress as that adaptive element to them can help you to adapt to whatever you are experiencing more easily.

Schizandra berries can be purchased online and in some health food stores. They are often bought either as dried berries which can be eaten straight or used in teas or as an extract either in powder or liquid form as a tincture. Mountain Rose Herbs offers a good price on dried schizandra berries. The good part about them is that they are so potent that you cannot eat them in the same amount as you would other foods.